Understanding Drum Brakes: Why They Matter for Your Safety

June 5, 2025

When it comes to stopping your car, drum brakes play a big role—especially on older vehicles and some modern ones with rear drum systems. While not as common as disc brakes, drum brakes are still important to maintain for safety and performance.

Rear car wheel assembly with exposed brake components, rusty hub, and red body frame. | Jim Brangham Auto Repair

What Are Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes are a type of brake system found mostly on the back wheels of many cars. They work by using brake shoes that press outward against the inside of a spinning drum. When this happens, your car slows down or comes to a stop.

Why Are Drum Brakes Important?

Even though disc brakes have become more common, drum brakes are still effective when properly maintained. They help your car stop safely and support your emergency brake system. If your drum brakes aren’t working right, you might notice:

A soft or spongy brake pedal
Strange noises like grinding or squeaking
The car pulling to one side
Longer stopping distances

Ignoring these signs can lead to brake failure, which is a serious safety risk.

Keeping Your Drum Brakes in Good Shape

At Jim Brangham Auto Repair in Cathedral City, CA, we inspect and service drum brakes as part of your routine maintenance. This includes checking the brake shoes, hardware, springs, and the brake drums themselves for wear or damage. When needed, we adjust or replace worn parts so your vehicle stays safe on the road.

Save Money with Regular Brake Service

Catching brake issues early helps avoid more expensive repairs later. Whether it’s replacing worn shoes or resurfacing the drum, routine brake service can save you money and give you peace of mind.

If you hear strange brake noises or feel something isn’t right when stopping, don’t wait. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair at 760-321-7040 to schedule a brake inspection. We’ll keep your vehicle safe and ready for the road.

Trusted. Honest. Local. Serving Cathedral City and the surrounding Coachella Valley.

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Why Your Power Steering Pump Is So Important

October 28, 2025

When your power steering is working right, turning the wheel feels effortless. But if your wheel feels stiff or you hear a whining sound when turning, you may have low fluid or a worn-out pump. Why Low Power Steering Fluid Is Dangerous Driving with low or no power steering fluid can be unsafe. The pump needs that fluid to build pressure and help you steer. Without it, your wheel can become very hard to turn—especially when parking or driving slowly. That can make it harder to control your car in an emergency. Low fluid also causes damage inside the pump, since the fluid keeps it cool and lubricated. If the pump runs dry, it can wear out fast or even stop working completely. What could’ve been a small fix can turn into a much more expensive repair. The Difference with Electronic Power Steering Many newer vehicles use electronic power steering (EPS) instead of hydraulic. EPS uses an electric motor to help turn the wheels. These systems don’t need fluid and are more fuel efficient. Still, it’s important to have them checked now and then to make sure the sensors and motor are working correctly. Keep Your Steering Safe and Smooth No matter what kind of steering system your vehicle has, regular checks are important. If you notice stiff steering, whining noises, or see fluid under your car, don’t ignore it. At Jim Brangham Auto Repair in Cathedral City, CA , our ASE-certified team can inspect your power steering system, top off or replace the fluid if needed, and make sure everything is safe and working properly. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair today at (760) 321-7040 to schedule your power steering inspection and service in Cathedral City, CA. We’ll help keep your car steering smoothly and safely for miles to come.

Why Differential Service Can Save You Money

October 16, 2025

What the Differential Does The differential is what helps your wheels turn smoothly when you go around corners. It lets each wheel move at a slightly different speed, which makes driving easier and safer. If your differential starts to wear out, you might hear grinding or whining sounds, or feel your car handle differently. It’s one of those parts you don’t think about until something goes wrong — and by then, it can get expensive to fix. Why Differential Fluid Service Is Important Inside your differential is fluid that keeps the gears cool and lubricated. Over time, that fluid breaks down from heat, friction, and dust — especially in California’s desert weather. When the fluid gets dirty, it can’t protect the parts anymore. If that happens, it can cause: Rough or noisy driving Gear damage Leaks or vibration Costly repairs down the road That’s why changing your differential fluid on time is so important. It’s a simple and affordable way to keep your car running smoothly. How Often Should You Change It? Most cars need differential service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you tow, haul heavy loads, or drive in hot weather often, you might need it sooner. The good news? It’s quick, easy, and saves you a lot of money compared to replacing the whole differential. How It Saves You Money Fresh differential fluid reduces wear and helps prevent breakdowns. A full differential replacement can cost thousands, while a fluid service is just a small routine maintenance. Taking care of it early keeps your car safe and reliable — and helps your budget in the long run. Trust Jim Brangham Auto Repair At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, our ASE-certified team knows how to keep your car in top shape. We offer differential service, A/C repair, smog inspections, and more to help your vehicle last longer and run better. If your car feels different while turning, or it’s been a while since your last service, come see us today. We’ll make sure your differential — and the rest of your car — gets the care it deserves. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair at (760)321-7040 in Cathedral City today for honest, expert car care you can trust!